The Bombay High Court has paused Mumbai Airport’s bid process to replace Turkish firm Celebi Nas Airport Services over a revoked security clearance. Learn more about the legal dispute, national security concerns, and how this impacts airport operations in India.

Celebi Ground Handling Case: High Court Stalls MIAL’s Replacement Plans

Background – Why Celebi Is in the Spotlight

Turkish company Celebi Nas Airport Services India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Çelebi Aviation Holding, has been providing ground handling and bridge handling services at Mumbai International Airport since 2015.

However, in May 2025, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) revoked Celebi’s security clearance citing national security concerns. This decision was influenced by ongoing India–Pakistan relations and Turkey’s support for Pakistan.

Bombay High Court’s Intervention

On May 26, 2025, the Bombay High Court issued an interim order preventing Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) from making a final decision regarding bids to replace Celebi. These bids were initiated on May 17, shortly after BCAS’s decision.

Justice Somasekhar Sundaresan, presiding over the Vacation Court, accepted Celebi’s argument that any premature decision would cause “irreversible harm” to the company and its employees.

Impact on Employees and Contracts

Celebi’s legal counsel, Chetan Kapadia, argued that the abrupt revocation had already resulted in over 2,000 employees losing their jobs. Many had been with the company for nearly a decade, receiving extensive training and certification.

Celebi had signed long-term contracts with MIAL for ground handling (2018) and bridge handling (2015), each spanning 30 years. The company has made significant investments in training, equipment, and infrastructure.

MIAL’s Justification and Response

MIAL countered that a “special clause” in its agreement allows it to act under Government of India directives, particularly in matters of national security. Therefore, no prior notice was necessary for termination.

In the interim, MIAL assigned Indo-Thai Aviation to continue services using Celebi’s existing personnel and equipment. The Court directed Indo-Thai to submit a financial and operational report, which MIAL must share with Celebi along with all obligations.

Ongoing Legal Battle in Multiple Courts

Celebi has filed three petitions:

• A writ petition contesting BCAS’s decision in the Bombay High Court

• Two arbitration applications challenging MIAL’s contract termination

Additionally, Celebi Airport Services India and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India have filed similar cases in the Delhi High Court concerning the Delhi Airport.

What’s Next for Airport Ground Handling in India?

The Celebi-MIAL dispute highlights the growing overlap of aviation law, national security, and international business in India. As proceedings continue, the verdict may shape future policies for foreign airport service providers operating within Indian territory.

Key Takeaways

• Celebi’s clearance revoked by BCAS over national security grounds

• Bombay High Court halts MIAL’s decision to replace Celebi

• Over 2,000 jobs affected, with contracts worth crores in dispute

• Legal action pending in both Bombay and Delhi High Courts